Shaver Post Driver Hydraulics Question

[Dougwatts]

I've got a Shaver HD8 driver that I bought used. Through not paying attention, I let the driving ram hit the road lock bracket, damaging it. I replaced the bracket, but now I notice a slight bend in the piston, just at the top. Although the bend doesn't appear to go into the cylinder, I now have a hydraulic fluid leak.

I haven't priced parts yet, but the parts listing seems to indicate I can get the complete cylinder replacement, or just parts. Clearly I need at least a new seal, and perhaps more, including a new piston (or this one to be straightened). I'm under some time pressure to get my fence up, so I'm trying to decide if it makes sense to just go ahead and get the entire assembly. Then I'd be able to take the other cylinder apart and overhaul it at my leisure.

Any experience in repairing Shaver cylinders/pistons/seals? Any thoughts on whether a backup cylinder on hand would ever be used (absent dumb moves that resulted in messing this one up!)?

Thanks.

[JerryG]

Go at head and price the parts from Shaver, but also take the cylinder to a hydraulic shop. I am positive that the shop will be cheaper by far.

[Dougwatts]

$250 for entire unit. There's no local hydraulics shop, so checking with one will involve a trip. What's your guess for the cost of straightening the piston and installing a new seal, assuming they have one?

[JerryG]

I would say half, but that is just a guess. Every area is different.